This verse, Matthew 26:18, is a key part of the narrative leading up to the Last Supper. Let's break down its meaning:
"He said, 'Go into the city to a certain person...'": Jesus instructs his disciples (likely Peter and John, based on Luke 22:8) to go to Jerusalem ("the city"). The crucial part is "a certain person." This indicates that Jesus already had a pre-arranged agreement with a specific individual within Jerusalem. This suggests a level of planning and knowledge on Jesus's part. The identity of this person is never explicitly revealed, adding an element of mystery.
"...and tell him, 'The Teacher says...'": "The Teacher" (Rabbi) was a common title used for Jesus, indicating authority and respect. Using this title would immediately identify Jesus to the householder.
"...“My time is at hand...": This phrase is significant. It signifies that Jesus understands his impending suffering and death are near. "My time" refers to God's appointed time for his sacrifice, his Passion. It reflects a sense of urgency and purpose.
"...I will keep the Passover at your house with my disciples.”'": Jesus intended to observe Passover, the most important Jewish festival, in accordance with Jewish law and tradition. Passover celebrates the Exodus of the Israelites from slavery in Egypt. By celebrating it with his disciples, Jesus is connecting his own impending suffering and death to the themes of liberation and redemption central to Passover. It also establishes the setting for what Christians believe is the institution of the Eucharist (Lord's Supper).
In summary, the verse signifies:
Divine foreknowledge and control: Jesus demonstrates awareness of the events about to unfold and orchestrates the setting for the Last Supper.
Imminent sacrifice: The phrase "My time is at hand" signals the approaching crucifixion.
Fulfillment of prophecy and divine plan: The Passover meal provides the context for understanding Jesus's role as the sacrificial Lamb of God, offering redemption from sin.
Transition from the Old Covenant to the New Covenant: The Last Supper, held during the Passover meal, is seen by Christians as the beginning of the New Covenant, established through Jesus's blood.
Hidden arrangement: The lack of a specific name for the person adds an air of mystery, while implying trust and obedience from someone within Jerusalem.
Therefore, this seemingly simple verse is loaded with theological weight and sets the stage for the momentous events of the Passion week.
This verse, Matthew 26:18, is a key part of the narrative leading up to the Last Supper. Let's break down its meaning:
"He said, 'Go into the city to a certain person...'": Jesus instructs his disciples (likely Peter and John, based on Luke 22:8) to go to Jerusalem ("the city"). The crucial part is "a certain person." This indicates that Jesus already had a pre-arranged agreement with a specific individual within Jerusalem. This suggests a level of planning and knowledge on Jesus's part. The identity of this person is never explicitly revealed, adding an element of mystery.
"...and tell him, 'The Teacher says...'": "The Teacher" (Rabbi) was a common title used for Jesus, indicating authority and respect. Using this title would immediately identify Jesus to the householder.
"...“My time is at hand...": This phrase is significant. It signifies that Jesus understands his impending suffering and death are near. "My time" refers to God's appointed time for his sacrifice, his Passion. It reflects a sense of urgency and purpose.
"...I will keep the Passover at your house with my disciples.”'": Jesus intended to observe Passover, the most important Jewish festival, in accordance with Jewish law and tradition. Passover celebrates the Exodus of the Israelites from slavery in Egypt. By celebrating it with his disciples, Jesus is connecting his own impending suffering and death to the themes of liberation and redemption central to Passover. It also establishes the setting for what Christians believe is the institution of the Eucharist (Lord's Supper).
In summary, the verse signifies:
Divine foreknowledge and control: Jesus demonstrates awareness of the events about to unfold and orchestrates the setting for the Last Supper.
Imminent sacrifice: The phrase "My time is at hand" signals the approaching crucifixion.
Fulfillment of prophecy and divine plan: The Passover meal provides the context for understanding Jesus's role as the sacrificial Lamb of God, offering redemption from sin.
Transition from the Old Covenant to the New Covenant: The Last Supper, held during the Passover meal, is seen by Christians as the beginning of the New Covenant, established through Jesus's blood.
Hidden arrangement: The lack of a specific name for the person adds an air of mystery, while implying trust and obedience from someone within Jerusalem.
Therefore, this seemingly simple verse is loaded with theological weight and sets the stage for the momentous events of the Passion week.